DCUC Annual Conference Wraps With Focus On Service, Leadership
By CU Today Staff —
AVENTURA, Fla.—The Defense Credit Union Council concluded its 2026 Annual Conference this past week after bringing together credit union leaders, advocates and industry partners from across the U.S. and overseas.
Conference sessions focused on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, cybersecurity and fraud prevention, leadership and organizational resilience, the changing financial landscape and advocacy priorities. The event also highlighted the role defense credit unions play in serving military members, veterans, Department of War personnel and their families worldwide.
The final day featured a keynote address, “25 Years Later: Leadership Lessons from 9/11,” from retired FDNY Chief Richard Picciotto, the highest-ranking New York City firefighter to survive the collapse of the World Trade Center.
With the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks approaching, Picciotto shared his firsthand account from Ground Zero and discussed lessons in leadership, resilience, decision-making and teamwork under extreme pressure. He emphasized the importance of remaining composed during a crisis and how leadership is tested most severely during periods of uncertainty.
“The credit union movement has always been united by an unwavering commitment to service,” said Anthony Hernandez, DCUC president and CEO, ret. U.S. Air Force colonel. “That dedication, along with our vital role as not-for-profit financial cooperatives, continues to distinguish the credit union difference within the broader financial services sector. The stories of meaningful impact and commitment to service celebrated throughout this week are powerful reminders of the purpose behind our movement and the difference credit unions make every day.
“DCUC Annual is rooted in the tradition of credit unions gathering to share ideas, strengthen relationships, and advance our shared mission of championing the financial well-being of our members," continued Hernandez. "Today, ‘serving those who serve’ reaches across regions, communities, and generations, from the servicemembers and veterans who have defended our freedoms to police officers, firefighters, or first responders who protect our communities. Theirs and others’ selfless service reflects the very values that continue to inspire our movement. We are proud to carry forward the traditions of DCUC Annual, champion the credit union difference, and help build a stronger financial future for the millions of Americans we serve.” Closing out the conference, DCUC, along with General Sponsor Brown & Brown, held its Grand Prize drawing, followed by DCUC’s Guest Prize drawing. DCUC then formally announced its 2027 Annual Conference which will take place at the Westin Bayshore Vancouver in Vancouver, Canada, from Monday, Aug. 2 through Thursday, Aug. 5.
Originally reported by CU Today.